National Council of Women Victoria to host annual lunch

THE Geelong branch of the National Council of Women Victoria (NCWV) will host its 81st annual luncheon later this month.

The function, which has the theme “Parenting with a disability”, is open to all women and men to listen to and meet Emelia Young, the keynote speaker.

Ms Young’s research and multidisciplinary work saw her receive the Minister’s Award for Outstanding Leadership in 2018 for the development of a specialty area that incorporates occupational therapy and maternity care, through nurturing independence and support of the growing number of young parents with disabilities.

She was also nominated and received a commendation award for the Excellence in Promoting Health, Housing and Wellbeing category for her contribution to the program.

In Australia, a significant number of children live with parents who have disabilities. About 15 per cent of children aged 0 to 14 live with one or both parents with a disability.

These parents face various challenges including societal barriers, outdated stereotypes, and lack of accessible resources and supports.

They often face open discrimination when people assume that having a disability affects someone’s ability to be a competent parent.\

Parents with disability are highly capable and bring unique strengths to parenting. Many of the skills they have developed in navigating a world not always designed for them – such as creativity, adaptability, ingenuity, and problem-solving – make them exceptional parents.

Ms Young said being able to support new families before and after the birth of their babies through the one-of-a-kind program in Victoria was a privilege for her and for disability service provider Yooralla.

“We are striving for equality in our society and that requires giving people access to the right type of supports to enable independence and participation in everyday life.

“This includes providing information, support and equipment to parents with a disability. When these are implemented, parents thrive caring for their child and feel empowered.”

Ms Young works every day to assess and implement strategies and equipment for people with disability, to increase their participation and engagement in meaningful everyday activities.

“When parents feel supported, their stress and anxiety around parenting is reduced, and they therefore have a more positive experience in the early stages at home with their baby,” she said.

“This is why I am passionate about continuing this program.”

The NCWV Geelong branch luncheon will take place at “The Pecten” within the Shell Club, corner of Bacchus Marsh and Purnell roads, Corio, on June 30 from noon.